BANGKOK — Stelliers has announced the finalists for Stelliers Asia 2026, celebrating hospitality professionals whose leadership, creativity and service excellence continue to shape hotels across the region. The shortlist also marks a significant expansion of the awards programme, with three new categories recognizing the changing landscape of hotel operations.
The finalists were revealed during a live broadcast on 5 June, with winners set to be announced at the Stelliers Asia 2026 Grand Awards Ceremony on 25 September at the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, which is celebrating its landmark 150th anniversary this year.
Positioned as one of Asia’s leading hospitality recognition platforms, Stelliers continues its mission of highlighting the people behind exceptional guest experiences rather than focusing solely on hotel brands.
New award categories reflect evolving hotel operations
For the 2026 edition, Stelliers has introduced three new categories:
- Security
- Owner
- Pastry Chef
The additions acknowledge the increasingly diverse roles that contribute to successful hotel operations and reinforce Stelliers’ commitment to recognising excellence across every part of the hospitality business.
According to Stelliers, the expanded programme better reflects today’s hotel industry, where operational success relies on expertise extending well beyond traditional front-of-house and management positions.
Celebrating the people behind hospitality
“Hospitality has always been an industry built by people, and this year’s finalists are a reflection of the individuals and teams creating meaningful experiences across Asia every single day,” said Simon Hansson Yu, Managing Director of Stelliers.
He added that the Stelliers community continues to showcase exceptional talent, leadership, creativity and genuine care while inspiring hospitality professionals throughout the region.
At the heart of the awards programme is Stelliers’ long-standing mission to ensure hotel professionals feel recognised, valued and empowered to lead, particularly as the industry continues adapting to new guest expectations and operational challenges.
General Manager finalists represent Asia’s leading luxury hotels
The 2026 General Manager finalists represent some of Asia’s most respected luxury hospitality brands.
The shortlist includes:
- Alain K. Bachmann — Zannier Bãi San Hô
- Go Kondo — The Ritz-Carlton, Bali
- Hildegard Anzenberger — Capella Hanoi
- Jean-Pierre Joncas — Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort
- Libor Secka — Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
- Masahisa Oba — The Peninsula Bangkok
- Peter Caprez — JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok
- Ruby Garcia — COMO Metropolitan Singapore
Unsung Hero category highlights frontline excellence
The Unsung Hero category continues to spotlight employees whose daily contributions often happen behind the scenes but are essential to delivering memorable guest experiences.
This year’s finalists are:
- Chiramet Thanusan — Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok
- Pawisaporn Nooput — V Villas Phuket – MGallery Collection
- Pornchai Savatsri — The Peninsula Bangkok
- Shuhaimi Saad — The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi
- Wijittra Chaiyairt — The Residences at The St. Regis Bangkok
Independent judging panel spans hospitality and technology
The selection process is overseen by an independent panel representing hospitality, asset management, advisory and technology sectors.
The 2026 judging panel includes:
- Regan Taikitsadaporn — Founder & Managing Director, Prokopi Consulting
- Bernhard Bohnenberger — Co-Founder & CEO, Discover Collection
- Mark De Cocinis — Former Chief Executive Officer, Boutique Group
- Simon Kahn — Chief Marketing Officer, Google APAC
- Yona He — Head of Asset Management & Owner Relations, JAPAC, Oracle
“The caliber of submissions for Stelliers Asia 2026 has been truly exceptional,” said Regan Taikitsadaporn.
“These finalists represent the very best of our industry and demonstrate that genuine excellence is rooted in the people who deliver outstanding hospitality every day.”
Industry partners back Stelliers Asia 2026
This year’s programme is supported by a network of hospitality partners including:
- Title Partner: NORDAQ
- Silver Partner: MJAI
- PR Partner: FINN Partners
- Media Partner: PR Newswire
The collaboration reflects continued industry support for recognising excellence, leadership and professional development across Asia’s hotel sector.
Bangkok to host the 2026 Grand Awards
The winners of Stelliers Asia 2026 will be announced on 25 September during the Grand Awards Ceremony at the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.
The event is expected to bring together hotel executives, owners, operators and hospitality leaders from across Asia, while also celebrating the iconic hotel’s 150-year legacy as one of the region’s most historic luxury properties.
For the complete list of finalists and official visual assets, visit the Stelliers website
